Guatemala is the largest country on Central America, and represents the best of it all - Mayan temples, bright and beautiful textiles, lake scenery, jungles to get lost in as well as colonial cities framed by a volcanic landscape. This is a place where shamans still practice and many local indigenous people follow the ancient Mayan calendar. Guatemala is somewhat underestimated as a travel destination, and this trip will put it on the map of your favourite countries.

itinerary

YOU MADE IT! Welcome to Guatemala.

ABSORB the colours, smells, and sounds of colonial Antigua.

SUNSET views of the city from Cerro de la Cruz.

UNWIND in the charming surrounds of Hotel Meson de Maria, our base for the next two nights.

FEAST on local delicacies in a culinary tour of Antigua’s pulsing street food scene.

BARTER for local textiles and jewelry with a local guide by your side.

SIP locally brewed coffee just meters from where it’s been grown as we tour a family run, micro fair trade coffee farm.

FILL UP on empanadas, chile rellenos, and doblados at night market Iglesias de la Merced.

MOVE those hips in a fiery evening salsa lesson.

LAKESHORE HIKE with magnificent views of the Sierra Madre Mountain range.

BOAT TOUR of Lake Atitlan.

LEARN about traditional Mayan textiles in a visit to a women’s textile cooperative.

AFTERNOON SWIM in the deep blue waters of Lake Atitlan.

Communal meal of traditional cuisine and SHARE stories from the day.

TRANSFORMATIONAL tour of the first female, indigenous-led secondary school in Central America.

SEAFOOD lunch of ceviche with a view at Club Ven Aca.

SUNSET stroll around the lake visiting the untouched indigenous village of El Jaibalito.

JACUZZI with a view and a cocktail in hand.

TURN in early for a dawn call time tomorrow.

RISE with the sun and climb to the peak of Temple IV.

TOUR the grounds of Tikal, once the greatest city of the Mayan civilization.

DINE amongst the ruins of Uaxactun Maya Village.

CAMP amongst ancient temples and thick jungle. 

BOO! Nighttime hike along jungle trails seeking out the forest’s nocturnal critters.

BUCKLE UP for a 4WD adventure through the forest grounds.

LOOK UP in awe at the 3000 ancient structures that dot the rainforest grounds.

SAVOUR a traditional lunch prepared from locally sourced ingredients.

BONFIRE dinner at Casa Santa Domingo.

That’s a WRAP.

location

Part of Central America, Guatemala. At the crossroads of a colonial past and indigenous culture, this hybridity is reflected in the myriad places we’ll be staying. 

Hotel Meson de Maria

Perfectly situated to explore the ancient town of Antigua, Hotel Meson de Maria will be our home for two days. The hotel is a restored mansion from the 12th century, furnished in the style of colonial Guatemala. Unwind in its garden courtyard or venture up to its rooftop for stunning views of the agua, fuego, acatenago volcanos which surround the valley. Rooms feature queen-size beds and private bathrooms. A range of room types are available. 

Casa del Mundo

Perched on the banks of magnificent Lake Atitlan, every room of this hotel is treated to a stunning view of its picturesque surrounds. Furnished in the tipico style (typical of the region), Casa del Mundo is utterly charming. Accommodation types range from standard rooms to deluxe suites with private balconies.

Casa Santa Domingo 

A restored convent and temple, Casa Santa Domingo is an innovative hotel with a spa, museum, and art gallery. Rooms are decorated with art from local creatives. A range of room types are available. 

Jungle Lodge Hotel

In the heart of Tikal National Park, Jungle Lodge will be our base for exploring the storied grounds of ancient Maya. Accommodation is comfortable and modern, with private bathrooms and your own porch. Rooms include mosquito nets and 24-hour ceiling fans.

Jungle Stay

We’ll also spend one night camping amongst ancient temples on the grounds of Uaxactun.

inclusions

• 7 night’s accommodation.

• Mayan shaman ritual experience.

• Salsa dancing lesson.

• Boat tour of Lake Atitlan.

• Mayan Shaman Ritual Ceremony.

• Special dinner inside the ruins of Uaxactan.

• Entry into the ancient grounds of Tikal and guided tour.

• Coffee tasting tour on a micro fair-trade farm.

exclusions

• Flights to and from Guatemala City.

FAQ’s

What is the accommodation like?

We’ll be staying in a range of accommodation types to give you the full Guatemala experience. Think charming, Spanish-inspired villas, cabins surrounded by wild jungle, and a camping experience in the heart of ancient ruins. 

What should I bring?

We’ll be doing lots of walking, so comfortable walking shoes are a must. Other than that, bring everything you’ll need for an eight-day adventure exploring the sights and sounds of Guatemala. It can get pretty warm during the day, so light, breathable clothing is recommended. Come nightfall, you’ll need a warm jacket as it can cool down a little in the evenings. 

Will I have downtime?

While our days are pretty packed to ensure you get the most out of your time in Guatemala, there will be times where you will be able to explore the city yourself or stay in and have some downtime. We’ll be spending some time on the road as well – the perfect time to get to know your fellow travelers, or pop in some headphones and bunker down with a good book.